Which Drywall Tape is Better: Paper or Mesh?

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Leah compares paper drywall tape to mesh drywall tape, and explains the advantages of each type.
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• Which Drywall Tape is ...

[@seejanedrill]

Hope you enjoyed the video. Have you ever wanted to create your dream home but didn't know where to start? Register for my free masterclass on creating your dream home here: www.seejanedrillcourse.com/register-home-masterclass

[@josevillegasromerodaniel5841]

Great Video...

[@gullynomadic]

Folks, I've been a contractor for 30 years. This woman knows her stuff, and knows how to teach her stuff. Someone needs to give her a TV show. Puts those fake HGTV "contractors" to shame. Keep up the good work, Leah!

[@seejanedrill]

Thank you so much! I always appreciate hearing from other folks in the skilled trades.

[@hebeiguangsou]

Hi friend, Do you need fiberglass mesh and adhesive mesh tape?

[@tylersmith293]

I’ve been in construction industry for almost 20 years. Very, very few women. Warms my heart to see a very knowledgeable one sharing wisdom.

[@davidmedina7192]

Jane gives me more confidence and peace then my therapist.

[@cristelgarciajr9359]

I wish she was my neighbor. I would talk to her every chance I could.

[@michellehood3345]

OMG doesn't she!!

[@jameshendricks1264]

@@cristelgarciajr9359 0++q0

[@swingbelly]

Ain't that the truth!

[@Adalmandol]

More than dr Phil ?

[@tacitdionysus3220]

By far the best explanation of anything on KZbin. Get's to the point immediately, clear, lucid and targeted at exactly what you need to know. As a vocational education teacher for many years, I'm just so impressed.

[@lillianreneeorgan]

You are a fantastic public speaker! Thank you for being so clear, concise, and conversational while informing. I've been doing so much research on how to rebuild my home after flood damage, and your video was more helpful than most.

[@almdoipad961]

Leah, thank you. Your voice is comforting when anxious about my project and simple, yet thorough explanations have been so helpful in my adventures in drywall.

[@karenwhite7056]

Leah, I adore you! You’re the best KZbin teacher! I love how you explain things succinctly and answer those questions that are wondered. God Bless you!

[@heartosky7366]

You are delightful to watch, well-paced and informative. I'm so glad to have found your channel. I've been a DIYer for 12 years, and your videos are plugging holes in my knowledge I didn't even know I had. I may just complete a few projects on which I've been stuck for ages...thanks!!

[@regisdiallo1296]

I never commented on a video but after watching a few of her videos I had to let this lady know she is amazing Love her videos Simple , detailed and she inspires you to try. You should have your own tv show . Thank you for all your help

[@seejanedrill]

Thank you so much, Regis! I really appreciate it. -Leah

[@douglaskooienga]

I'll ditto that!!

[@JoshuaFowler8]

Leah is like Mr. Rodgers, Bob Ross or Norm Abram - thank you Leah for reaching the DIYer in us all.

[@spirit3soul]

I love you Leah! You are my go to when I'm needing to do DIY and learn things. I did fall in love with mesh tape when I had vertical floor to ceiling stress cracks in two rooms and had fixed 3 times (over several years) to no avail (the cracks always came back). I went and got some mesh tape and cut apx 1/4" deep into sheetrock and apx width of the tape. I put some mud, then mesh, dry, another layer of mud and mesh, dry and then finished it off. It's been over 20 years and those stress cracks have never come back. Keep up the great videos.

[@ronday4210]

Much love my sister-you’re always so helpful-never thought a Lady would be teaching me how to be a handyman. Thanks for all you do.

[@markshou8045]

Clear and concise comparison, explained with examples... this is an example of what helpful videos do.

[@rev.carleneappel177]

Love seeing another woman who loves her tools! Thanks Leah. I’m actually trying a new. Kind of tape called Fibafuse, which can be used in taping machines. It’s like the Interfacing used in sewing that you line things like collars with. Would like to see what you think of it.

[@zacgvids]

Leah always leaves me with that positive vibe that gets me moving. Thanks as always Leah.

[@Dawghome]

Seriously glad that KZbin introduced your video's to me when I first started out watching videos, you are amongst my first subscriptions. I wafted away probably for several years then all of a sudden one of your video's appeared with your face as the thumbnail and recognised you immediately & am happy to have you back as my son's flat is in need of some repairs prior to decorating and almost similar to my home. Glad to see you back Jane!👍😁😀

[@Marcotc17]

Leah, I can't thank you enough for making these videos. Your vast knowledge of so many home repair areas, your thorough explanations, and your straightforward, friendly demeanor have taught me more than any other information source. DIY home improvement isn't at all as scary as I thought - thanks to you! Keep up the great work!

[@seejanedrill]

Hey Marco, that is very nice. That is why we do what we do...🙂

[@PamelaLUSAF]

Hi Leah, this is my first time watching one of your videos and I must say, You've done an outstanding job at explaining the difference of dyrwall paper tape vs mesh. I stumbled upon your video while searching something else and was wicked happy to I did. When helping others with DIY Home Improvements ( I love to tinker)... I have always explained that mesh tape was really for small area damaged wall repair where it just isn't reasonable to cut a new piece of drywall, fit it in and tape. I also wanted to mention, although this video is not intended to teach folks how to tape joints etc... I do wish to say that floating over paper tape is easier and leaves for much "finish" work. I still use a wet sponge rather than dry sanding ...but that is my preference. Thanks again!

[@seejanedrill]

Hi there, thanks for sharing your personal experience with the community!

[@lv3137]

So glad I stumble upon your page. Just moved into our home and have quite a few big projects for us to complete since my husband and I… 1 are not handy people… 2 never completed one diy project… 3 are on a tight budget. Just watched your wall/ceiling crack video before this one and it has help us what to look for as far as materials, tools and steps on fixing it. Thank you!

[@MrJim4]

That was a very helpful explanation! I’ve asked numerous contractors to explain this concept and never gotten anything beyond “it just is better” or “I only use this”... Thanks!

[@NumberOneWithACoke]

So Clear. Like walking through the park on a sunny day. Thanks Leah.

[@jacklamey5903]

It's good to see that somebody is telling people how to do this that knows the job and the terminology

[@Vajravir]

Leah, thanks a lot for taking the time to teach us, the DIYers, the ins and outs of the trade. Love the way you make the topics simple.

[@Samantha-cp1qm]

I gain so much knowledge from this short informative video. I had a drywall person to walk on my project which left me angry and determined, so at end of the video I appreciate the motivation, and “YES, I CAN DO THIS!” 🤗🤗with jumpin’ up and down that came upon your channel. Thank you!

[@lejend69]

I must say I love watching your videos cuz there is never a dumb question with u and I respect that thank u very much love

[@seejanedrill]

you're very welcome! thanks for watching :)

[@mattlacarra2069]

Dead on, and I absolutely agree. The ticking stick video saved my life.

[@ciannaguillen8541]

Great video Thank you!!!

[@josheisert8380]

What a lovely personality AND she knows her sh#t. She has a way of explaining stuff for the "do it yourselfers" while putting on a contractors master class all at the same time.

[@janehorney5996]

Absolutely love your videos!! The information is very descriptive. The best part when you end the video and tell me I Can DO This!! It pumps me up to tackle the job with the techniques you have given me

[@LesterElm1]

Excellent tutorial, as always, Leah. Thanks.

[@visioneer68]

This is the kind of friend I need in my life all the time. Wish I had found a channel this easy to understand a lot sooner than I did, some of my DIY attempts may have come out a lot less... crappy.

[@ducaking]

I feel the same!!! ahahah... Im getting goooood at DIY because of Leah's tips

[@desmond9704]

Yes, you answered my question exactly! I am now convinced on the advantages of paper tape for the inside corners and when sanding. I will use both for the right purposes, thank you for the precise information I was looking for.

[@bodiejap]

Thank you for the tips Leah! I love the genuine attitude!

[@timssmith1118]

I love this woman!!! She is such a great person!!! YOU CAN DO THIS

[@jacomans9078]

I do mainly repairs, if I did production work it would be paper tape, but on repairs I use the ultra thin mesh tape, almost never see the mesh, it lays down nicely and holds the seams together, makes for a quicker job, and less coats...but I agree with most of what you say.. good vid!

[@wendywilmarth2893]

Leah, I really admire your knowledge, I am repairing my bathroom and all your information makes me feel confident that my project will come up perfect, thank you!!! :)

[@kevinbowker2385]

No matter how old the video, they're always informative, entertaining and relevant. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with such an easy demeanor.

[@edwardtse8631]

Love your video, so happy to see your subscriber count is going up fast!!!

[@seejanedrill]

thanks, Edward!

[@gentlegiants04]

Wow, this was perfect, told me exactly what I needed to know. Plus I LOVE seeing a woman doing and teaching things like this. Thanks Leah!!

[@christopherlampman5579]

She’s the best, taught me the so much.

[@andrewmarsman3294]

Agree, I just hung my drywall but gouged a few areas really bad. I think the mesh will benefit in those areas and regular tape for the rest

[@ahmahtiyehudim7307]

A woman?

[@ahmahtiyehudim7307]

@@christopherlampman5579 ,She?

[@benhaj7662]

@@ahmahtiyehudim7307 yes she is a female with differences

[@tonytully4943]

Your video's are great! The information alone is good for so many people. Your demeanor and how you explain things makes it amazing

[@OB1974]

Leah, you are an excellent instructor. I learned something new today. Thank you for taking the time to post you videos.

[@seejanedrill]

you're welcome, Bob, and thanks for watching!

[@coyote102076]

I have favored the paper tape mostly, and it has been in my last 3 remodels. Not because of cost, but I liked it because I just found it much easier to work with. Glad you posted this vid. It will for sure help someone in the future!

[@seejanedrill]

I just watched some of your videos. I owned a few bikes in my day and your videos make me miss the experience of riding down quite country roads. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.

[@coyote102076]

Awww heck! :-D Well thanks for taking a peek at my goofy channel. hahaha! I had a heap of home remodeling vids up till about 2 years ago. Then when I got out of "house flipping" I deleted them all. ( In the end I lost more money than I made after all the expenses in that business! I think I paid myself about $3/hr working for myself! hahahaa! ) Hope you have a blessed week.

[@joshmorrow1506]

I can’t express just how much I appreciate your videos! You’ve helped me with my DIY projects tremendously and I have saved a lot of money and time in the process. I only wish I would have found your channel sooner!

[@seejanedrill]

thanks, Josh!

[@OneWickedEvo]

Nice job Leah! I just used mesh tape for a similar hole. During the first part of your vid I kept thinking, I hope I don't need to start over with tape! Thanks for clarifying and sharing your tips.

[@OccamsRazoretta]

Thanks so much, Leah. You sure did answer my question. I'm a newbie at drywall repair, so I will use both, as needed.

[@rms4336]

Thanks for your time to do this helpful videos for everyone, I'm Honduran and i appreciate you advice ty

[@jeffryblackmon4846]

Now I'm reminded of a hole in the wall to fix. I appreciate your skills and easy-going style of presenting your info. .

[@seejanedrill]

:)

[@thorlo1278]

Leah I have only seen a few of your videos and have already learned a very important lesson from you. If I listen and watch your videos, I better be ready to watch and listen carefully because you never say anything that isn't important to the subject at hand. I am 66 y/o and would love to come and sit down and listen to you talk. Just like this short video on paper vs mesh tape. I never knew that about tape. It was just awesome. Keep up the great work!

[@georgeatkinson6023]

lea is great, because she has walked the walk, not just just talked the talk, like a lot of people on u tube. 👍

[@Barbarra63297]

I'm with you Leah, paper tape is best, I've used mesh many years ago and hated the stuff! Good vid!

[@-marianne]

Every time I finish watching one of your videos, I say to myself "I love this woman". lol Thanks so much and the comments are always so helpful too! :)

[@ecuadori]

Marianne Hartsfield : She remains me of a teacher I had in college. He was like Jane who went through the subject thoroughly, explaining it in such detail the intricacies. I also appreciate her explanations. She has the gift to teach!

[@-marianne]

Agreed!

[@ianbennett8248]

Yes! So helpful

[@norocketsciencebuild5371]

Marianne Hartsfield she is truly a gem!

[@norocketsciencebuild5371]

LS well lucky you. I wish I had one like her. Teachers like her would make learning easy.

[@ChoppingtonOtter]

Love your common sense approach to things and watch your vids here in England all the time Leah. Many thanks for posting such useful stuff.

[@red13redc]

She is such a lovable person. I wish I had a teacher like you.......I wish I had a DIY teach in general but you'd be the whole package!! Thanks for making these videos :)

[@DaruDhillon]

Great video! I think for DIYers I'd recommend using FibaFuse over the old fibreglass mesh tape. It sits flatter so it requires less mudding and sanding. You can also use pre-mixed mud which is the easiest if you're a beginner.

[@PaulPeck]

Good stuff Leah! Ive found when teaching DIYers to drywall finish, the fiberglass mesh tape is easiest for them to use. Because just like you said you don't have to in bed the mesh tape like paper tape. That is usually the biggest issue of getting a flat drywall joint for a beginner, is applying to much joint compound when doing the initial bedding of the paper tape. Lastly most mesh tape manufacturers recommend to use a setting type joint compound for the first coat over fiberglass mesh drywall tape. Take care, -Paul

[@seejanedrill]

Thanks Paul for mentioning the manufactures recommendation, it's important.

[@Giove83]

Paul Peck totally agree with you on the mesh pal I'm just plasterboarding my loft and I'm using the mesh. I'm not going to plaster it I'm just going to do a good of a job I can on the joints then seal and paint it. What's your opinion on sealers? I do think know if to water down paint or use proper sealer but witch one

[@danielwill831]

Wow, what a totally incorrect explanation of tape use, obviously works at bunnings 🤦‍♂️

[@thecoolestdad]

30 plus years experience here. With paper tape, you apply the mud to the recessed edge, the put the paper tape on, and wipe it down from the center to each end. LET THAT DRY TIL THE NEXT DAY!!!! Do not apply a bed coat to the wet paper tape. Give it a day to dry and shrink tight. Then the next day, use an 8" stainless steel floating knife and float a coat of mud over the tape. The feather of the top edge and bottom edge, then wipe down the mud, holding the knife at maybe 30-45 degree angle to the wall. Wipe down and make sure the mud is clean and smooth. let it dry, then the following day, use a 10" stainless steel knife and float a skim coat on that. Same procedure then after it is dry, it is ready to lightly sand. Use 100 grit screens or a sponge. Stay away from the mesh tape. I am a 30 plus year pro and I still do not use it. If a pro won't use something, what does that tell you about it?

[@2321brendan]

@@thecoolestdad Correct. In Australia CSR do not recommend using mesh tape for anything other than small holes and patches. Mesh tape cracks on joints that have even the slightest movement. 30 year trade qualified Drywall plasterer here.

[@cooperdog9956]

Thank you! You always make your videos clear, simple and to the point......and you provide examples and explanations for us DIYers!

[@trisho.970]

I love watching your videos! I am such a DIY-Dummy, and you make me feel like I can fix anything!! I get so inspired! You really know your stuff and I appreciate you sharing your knowledge with us. Thank you SO much 💓 💗 💛

[@felixramos720]

I like it, I like it, I like it, I would like to write a thousand times "I like it" but it will take me the whole night to do it, so let me just finish by saying again thank you Leah now I know the difference about the mesh and paper tape.👋👋👋👍

[@seejanedrill]

you're very welcome, Felix!

[@glatt1]

I think I am fairly knowledgeable, but then you always teach me something like store my mesh tape in a ziplock bag. Great tip. Thanks.

[@Pittsburghfix]

Daniel Ruff store that mesh tape directly in the garbage can lol

[@machatarn3839]

Loved your video Leah. I was just asking these questions and you've answered every one. I over sanded my mesh and yes, it shows. Oh dear!

[@mastermetalshredder]

Vancouver Carpenter also did a video on this subject.You told us some things that he didn't, and vice versa so I'm glad I found both.. Thanks for taking the time and posting this!!

[@magicrobharv]

Good info.

[@Bageera63]

Mesh tape has a shelf life. Who knew? Thanks again! Great stuff as always. I gotta go put my mesh tape in a plastic bag.

[@ernestobruno5733]

Bageera Sixtythree

[@sheepdogsherlock1311]

She falsely presented this. Mesh tape will lose its stckyness in hot dry temps over time... BUT this only means you can then just use it like paper tape.

[@jdmb03]

Mesh tape will dry out and become brittle.

[@terryheasley7027]

But she sealed it in a plastic bag that had a hole in it near the top. What’s the point?

[@jerrydyke2291]

@@terryheasley7027 I'm glad u recognized that!😂

[@Shela100100]

You are so inspiring.... blessed to have found you..... that mesh tape gets on my nerves 90% of the time I get stragglers.... but didn't know about those loading tools. You are awesome.... but when I'm having a hard time with any of my projects I think of you.... Thanks Leah 🥰🥰

[@catherinewhalen1132]

Leah- I always count on Leah when I am standing in Home Depot trying to make a decision. Huge fan. Thank you

[@alexprokhorov407]

I agree. Couple of things though. Generally, mesh-taped joints are stronger and less prone to cracking compared to paper ones, especially in areas of stress, such as above door jambs and windows. Also, for paper tape you must use all-purpose non-setting compound, which takes longer to dry. For mesh tape you can use 45 or 90-minute mud, so the time between the coats is shorter. When time is the factor, mesh is the way to go, especially on smaller projects when things need to be done overnight.

[@MAGAMAN]

"Generally, mesh-taped joints are stronger and less prone to cracking compared to paper ones" That is 100% Bullshit. I also use hot mud for my pre-fill and paper taping and it works fine.

[@jpillajap]

I Love your videos! Thanks!

[@larcat3148]

Great vid Leah. To the point, no BS spin with miles & miles of waffle. Love the tip abt. storing the mesh tape !

[@petercoombs4384]

Nice work, Leah! I’m a first-timer who’s gotta go get the right stuff and this was informative... thanks!

[@norocketsciencebuild5371]

Fantastic video!!!!

[@seejanedrill]

thanks!

[@royormonde3682]

Also, I use mesh on all my corner beads, which works great.

[@Red-uq3jc]

Great advice ! Retired now, but many years as painter and paper hanger. So most of my drywall was in repairs before advancing to the reason I was hired. Although on occasion. Smaller sheetrock jobs did come my way. While in doing so. I came up with a system of wetting the paper tape before applying to adhere coat. Barely moistened, ( misted --- too much H2O wasn't good ) . It seemed to allow the finish coats to be stronger. The dry paper did not absorb the moisture from the mud too fast. Kind of like moistening say brick work before mortar applied. Slowing drying actually increases bond. Well my experience anyway... Just thought I would share that info. Again...love Her videos.... pros & cons are always a good place to look.

[@ryanp347]

Leah, thank you for your time and advise. Very helpful.

[@goffrd137]

Cool knowledge to have

[@seejanedrill]

Nice to see you again Goff

[@aMoneyYell]

You make me happy :) thanks for the awesome tid-bit of knowledge

[@hyggeinteriorsco.5015]

Really great breakdown for the different uses and benefits of the two tape products! Would have loved to have seen this video when I first started my renovation project. Thanks for that, Leah!

[@seejanedrill]

you're very welcome!

[@davidemoore1620]

I really appreciate all of your videos and sharing of your knowledge. You are an excellent teacher. Thank you.

[@royzcustomz]

there are moments when i like paper but i usually use the mesh myself. nice explanation of the differences. thank you.

[@nr3rful]

You are the best...thank you

[@dulaadem5506]

Excellent job

[@reidcross9051]

Thanks again Leah. Your tutorials go right to the point.

[@lorimarra377]

You have inspired me over the years. Always helpful!

[@energyfrequencyandvibratio4867]

I like mesh for repairs and paper for new construction

[@HardhitterHardhitter]

It’s you again after the pencil thing damn I love you

[@seuthsayer12]

Another brilliant video. Gave me a really great idea on how to fix my bay window ceiling. Thanks Leah.

[@Angel-hf2fe]

Im learing so much from you during quarantine. Thank you. You make it so easy!!!

[@rlund3]

`Good stuff al always!!

[@alext9067]

Some mesh tape warns against using it w/ drywall compound. It says to use it only w/ setting compound. I've had the mesh tape actually split right along the joint on a flat wall. It's a hairline crack that is visible.

[@ianrichardson3228]

I think the compound would have cracked, but not the fibreglass mesh. It's very strong, and must be crimped very tight to break it.

[@cosandraodame7623]

Smart fellow this is the clearest illustration I've ever had. Thank you for getting right to the point in this video and not telling me about a lot of experiences. The illustrations you did use were excellent examples ,but you stayed right on q

[@Jguy365]

Oh! Your tip about folding the seam over on mesh rolls is absolutely brilliant! I’ve ruined many layers of mesh tape by having to make new seams because I can’t find the existing one.

[@FidYoMan]

I can, I can do it! - I'm going to do it and I'm going to do it real soon. I've only been looking at the hole in the bathroom ceiling for about 6 months, (so give me time to get round to it). ... Yea, I'm the idiot who fell through the ceiling from the loft after missing the joist, whilst waltzing around the loft in the dark! I was wondering why I even need to use tape... Thanks Leah, great advice.

[@gman4937]

Mesh tape in tapered seams, paper tape in butt seams and corners. I've been doing it that way for 25+ years and the only time either one has failed is because of A: water damage or B: operator error (air bubble under paper, puckered tape, etc.)

[@MAGAMAN]

I tried mesh tape once and will never use that crap again.

[@tomunderwood4283]

Great video! Mesh tape is also used with green board (mold/moisture resistant) drywall for humid rooms like bathrooms.

[@tinatruman4643]

Thank you so much. You truly explained this whole mesh versus paper tape excellently! Saved us from buying the wrong tape!

[@nate9639]

If you have drywallers who did a crappy job and leave wide gaps then leave and go off to another job and you come in to tape said crap job, you will have to use mesh tape. Paper tape over any wider gap will push out thus making sanding next to impossible. Mesh tape is stronger and far more flexible over any wider gap or hole than paper. The holes in the mesh are designed to allow the mud to be pushed through and mushroom out behind the drywall to create strength and rigidity. Mold resistant mesh tape is also better to use in damp areas like washrooms and laundry rooms, were as paper tape will have better chance of becoming moldy. Paper tape is the best on most properly boarded rooms.

[@bobcougar77]

I'd agree with most of your comment except 2: Mesh tape is not stronger:. It's just not, that's why you MUST use hot mud with mesh tape. I agree that mesh tape may contribute to a stronger system if you have large gaps and you don't prefill. The proper sequence is to prefill large gaps with hot mud, then tape. That will result in a stronger system. The biggest mistake I see people make is to all purpose with mesh tape:. Recipe for failure.

[@funnypeoplerule]

You are SO AMAZING!! If you had a drywall school, I would attend, I really want to become proficient at it!! For some reason it is therapeutic to me.

[@beerbeforebreakfast]

Its so cool that you are interested in drywall work.

[@eldangeroso68]

I watch a lot of DIY tips from lots of different people and I think Leah is the best.

[@georgetapia4949]

Jane, thank you for sharing your experience about tape and mesh, great explanation . You are awesome.

[@MyFortressConstruction]

I also rarely use mesh tape because I've found that on most of my remodels the mesh tape joints have cracked. Paper joints can fail as well, but if you think about it, paper already has a shear strength built into it, add a nice layer of mud to both sides and it's a very solid joint. Mesh is simply giving strength to the mud. However, since you put the tape on before any mud, the tape isn't getting much, if any, mud behind it. It would be like concrete being poured on top of rebar that was left sitting on the ground instead of being suspended in the middle of the slab. It will provide a little reinforcement, but hardly any at all. If there is any movement in the wall or ceiling then the mesh, which is hardly supporting to begin with, will fail causing a crack through the joint. However, as was stated in the video, mesh is good when suspended in the middle of mud, such as a hole in drywall, because it is in the middle of the mud.

[@noone6489]

nope. The mud goes through the holes and sticks. We had an earthquake here recently and every single paper tape joint has peeled. The mesh tape did get some damage but nowhere near as much. Remember it was an earthquake. But it didn't just peel off. That's because the compound sticks to the wall through the holes in the mesh tape keeping a much more solid contact. You do not get this luxury with paper tape. If a slight movement moves the joint just a tiny bit, because there is no compound from the top directly holding it on there, it's much more likely to peel.

[@MyFortressConstruction]

It's true that when mesh fails, the only thing you see is a line crack as opposed to the entire piece coming off, and if you're in an earthquake prone area then the crack from mesh tape is probably preferable to the entire piece coming off, but I still stand by the fact that a joint held together by paper tape is a lot stronger, though an earthquake can bend steel. The reason why all of the joints don't fail after an earthquake is because different parts of the house will be stressed more, not because the joint was stronger. Both will fail with a strong enough earthquake and/or the right stress.

[@noone6489]

true, but mesh tape is actually stronger as it's made of fiber, where as paper is made of paper. You can much more easily sand to your viewing preference with paper tape, but you can get a much flatter, more hidden seam with mesh if it's thin enough. Some problem areas require stronger thicker mesh, but you know even then it's generally able to be flatter, because if you sand too much on paper it rips. However paper is easier to get it right if you know what you're doing. Fiberglass will just need another VERY THIN layer of delicately applied compound to coverup over-sanding. Yes it's much more involved in getting it right because it takes more skill, but it actually is less stress on you overall because of it's simplicity. It'll just take longer to get it done than paper. Not because of retries (if you are experienced enough) but because of the amount of days needed for each touch-up to dry. You don't really have to retry much with mesh, you just have to do more finishing touch ups. There is no starting over from scratch if you did it right! Not so with paper.

[@btrswt35]

I worked for a contractor for a number of years and for inside corners, paper tape. For everything else, mesh tape. Smoothing paper tape out can be difficult because of air bubbles. With mess, that's not a problem. Paper tape is easier to cut/rip pieces to length and mesh tape needs a sharp knife to get the best cut.

[@fr33ourminds]

I find that mesh tape cuts well as long as the knife is flush against the wall.

[@joekeene6671]

If you are having bubbles under the tape it is the finishers not the tape it is very rare I get blisters under my tape and I hand tape 7 to 10 rolls an day

[@michellehood3345]

OMG...I just LOVE 💕 you..!! Was trying to use paper tape on ceiling leak repair...first time doing this...and it kept falling off...if I use mesh...it will stick! GENIUS 👍 Thank you so so much!! God bless you for doing this!!!!

[@pointblank6467]

Wonderful! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I always learn something new watching your videos.